THURROCK’S new mayor is Cllr Tony Fish – elected at Wednesday (22 May) evening’s annual council meeting.
Cllr Fish congratulated Cllr Yash Gupta – whose term of office ended that night, saying: “Yash and Pushpa did a great job and will be a hard act to follow but I’ll do my best.”
Cllr Fish was elected deputy mayor in 2003 but did not take up the post of mayor in 2004 as Labour lost power.
He said that when he lost the use of his legs in 1981 he couldn’t “dream I would one day be sitting here as Mayor of Thurrock.
“But back then I decided to adopt a positive attitude and make the most of what I had and I think achieving this ambition is a testament to that positive attitude.”
He said he wanted to use his year as mayor to “highlight the wonderful dedicated work that goes on in Thurrock to support vulnerable people lead rich and fulfilling lives where they have the same choices and control over their lives as everyone else”
He added that being part of this year’s group of diversity champions on a trip to Berlin to gain an insight into Nazi atrocities had really affected him.
“It made me determined to redouble my efforts to promote equality and diversity issues. This will undoubtedly be one of the themes of my Mayoral year,” he said.
The mayor concluded: “As a proud lifelong resident of Thurrock I will also be promoting our great borough and its rich, colourful history. With the regeneration taking place over the next few years I’m sure we’re looking at a great future.
“I intend to enjoy every minute.”
Cllr Fish announced the mayoress will be his sister, Sue Bradish.
Cllr Wendy Curtis was elected deputy mayor, with her husband, Cllr Charlie Curtis – himself mayor two terms ago – as consort.
Well done Cllr Yash Gupta on an amazing hard year you have attended loads of event been an amazing Mayor for the borough.
Cllr Fish we be a great ambassador for disabled people, and will bring hope and aspiration to many.